Medical factors influencing decision making regarding radiation therapy for breast cancer

Abstract

Radiation therapy is an important and effective adjuvant therapy for breast cancer. Numerous health conditions may affect medical decisions regarding tolerance of breast radiation therapy. These factors must be considered during the decision-making process after breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy for breast cancer. Here, we review currently available evidence focusing on medical conditions that may affect the patient–provider decision-making process regarding the use of radiation therapy.

Keywords:

• cardiac devices
• connective tissue disease
• prior radiation

Disclosure

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.